About Talcum Powder

What is Talc?

Talc is a mineral that is composed of different elements, mainly magnesium, silicon and oxygen. Asbestos, a dangerous substance known to cause cancer, can also be found in talc naturally. When crushed, talc becomes talcum powder, a household item sold primarily to absorb moisture while reducing friction.

What Products Contain Talc?

Talc can be found in everyday items including:

Cosmetics (like facial powder)

Baby Powder

Deodorants

Dry Shampoo

Laundry Soaps

Arts and Crafts Products

How Talc Can Cause Ovarian Cancer

Women who used baby powder as part of their feminine hygiene routine may have talc particles in their ovarian tissues. Talc particles can remain in the body for years, even after talcum powder use is discontinued. The particles can cause inflammation in the ovaries that allows cancer cells to form, grow and spread.

“We the talc industry, dodged a bullet … Time to come up with more confusion!” – Luzene executive in response to a National Toxicology Program review of talc safety concerns

More Talcum Powder & Ovarian Cancer Info

Talcum Powder Facts

Fibers of talcum powder can take many years to fully dissipate inside the body - source

If inhaled, talcum powder can cause acute to chronic lung irritation known as “talcosis,” although this is most common in infants - source

Talc miners, millers and other workers regularly exposed to talc are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer and other respiratory disease. This is due to the presence of asbestos in talc’s natural form - source

One in five women use talc routinely for feminine hygiene purposes - source

African-American women are more likely to use talc regularly than other races - source

Popular Talcum Powder Brands

* Please note that some brands offer corn starch varieties of their products. Be sure to check the ingredients.

We work with clients and attorneys throughout the country, representing plaintiffs and claimants in a wide variety of litigation in many different practice areas.

We are one of the country's leading firms involved in civil litigation, having represented hundreds of thousands of people. We hold national records for the largest jury verdicts in numerous categories.